You have your pick of gearbox, a five-speed manual SM5 with reverse gear, or the new SE5, featuring automatic clutch action and gear changes. On the SE5, you change gears through a toggle switch on the left grip, with the clutch and shift movements managed and controlled by the all encompassing ECU, much like the Yamaha FJR1300A. The SE5 transmission should be just the thing for newcomers to bikes, while converts from motorcycles might have to learn new reflexes.

You certainly cannot miss the Howitzer-sized rear exhaust cum catalyst. A big heavy piece that sportier users will quickly replace with something lighter and, unfortunately, noisier. (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)

Advanced electronics for enhanced safety
Mainly designed for those jumping the fence from the auto world, the Spyder RS-S comes equipped with a thankfully inescapable electronic driving assist system. The aptly named Vehicle Security System (VSS) includes ABS brakes, traction control, an all new “Stability Control System”, and the Electronic Braking Distribution (EBD) system.

On top of doing their traditional job, the VSS ABS and traction control functions detect changes in direction by the use of lateral accelerometers and lean angle sensors, as well as by determining the rotational speed difference between the two front wheels. This data enables the VSS to cut the throttle to reduce rear wheel spin on hard corner exit. It also applies the brake to the outer front wheel and cuts engine torque to reduce speed and lateral acceleration – and the risk of tipping over! Go See the article about the Spyder’s onboard technologies.

The brakes are applied via a right-side pedal only, when the EBD comes into play. This other VSS application sends the majority of the braking effort to the rear wheel, to leave as much front wheel traction available for direction changes and emergency braking.

With all the VSS applications, BRP is seeking to improve the safety of the vehicle for every-day use and to improve its obstacle-avoidance capabilities. The dynamic behaviour of the Spyder presents some surprising complications that make advanced electronic systems necessary for the safety of all types of riders, especially the more aggressive riders.

Generous ergonomics
The Spyder riding position is reminiscent of sport oriented bike. The rider leans forward slightly, knees folded at roughly a 90-degree angle. Thanks to the machine’s generous proportions, the rider feels both comfortable and safe, with wide but not-too-distant handlebars. The nicely sculpted and well-padded saddle coddles the rider as well as the passenger.

It does not take long to learn how to engage reverse gear, or start the engine after confirming that you have read the safewty notice - every time you start the motor! (Photo: Philippe Champoux/Moto123.com)